Northern hairy-nosed wombat project celebrates second translocation

A project to bring one of Australia’s most endangered species back from the brink has entered its second stage in line with Threatened Species Day.

Department of Environment, Science and Innovation staff and traditional owners releasing translocated endangered Northern Hairy-nosed wombats at Powrunna State Forest. Picture: Leanne White/ Supplied

A project to protect one of Australia’s most endangered species has entered its second stage in South West Queensland.

In keeping with Threatened Species Day on September 7, the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation embarked on its second relocation effort to stimulate the Northern hairy-nosed wombat population.

A further 15 wombats are set to be released to the newly introduced Powrunna State Forest population near St George after a successful first effort saw multiple joeys birthed.

“This second translocation of wombats is another significant step in the ongoing efforts to safeguard this critically endangered species,” principal conservation officer Dave Harper said.

Around 400 hairy-nosed wombats now exist in the wild, up from an estimated 35 in the 1980s.

Department of Environment, Science and Innovation staff and traditional owners set traps in order to translocate endangered Northern Hairy-nosed wombats to Powrunna State Forest. Picture: Supplied.

“Whenever we capture a wombat, there is much excitement because all the effort, the planning and hard work that has gone into this project is paying off,” he said.

“It is wonderful to see them released at Powrunna and it does feel like a success story, but the real cause of elation will be to see the current joeys breed, which will prove the new site is fully functional.”

The rare animals are carefully transported 10 hours from Central Queensland by dedicated wildlife officers such as Rachel Baker.

“During the (first) drive I was focusing on safety because the wombats are priceless, and it felt like I was transporting the Prime Minister,” Ms Baker said.

“Being involved in this project is such a career highlight, and to assist with the establishment of the third population reminds me of why I love my job.”